Space to Breathe

Young people growing up in busy cities face many pressures — from school, family life, peers and social media — often with limited access to nature.

Space to Breathe creates time and space to slow down, reconnect with the outdoors and feel more settled and confident. Through nature, creativity and adventurous outdoor experiences, young people discover what they are capable of, step outside their comfort zones and begin to see themselves differently.

This might look like climbing a rock face, a swim in cold water, sketching to loud music, or expressing yourself through dance.

Room to Grow

Once young people feel safe and supported, they are ready to grow.

Room to Grow helps young people develop skills, confidence and a stronger sense of who they are. Through creative projects, outdoor learning and community activities, young people explore their ideas, build leadership and take positive action in their lives and communities.

This might look like learning about mental health, exploring identity through creative writing, participating in activism, and displaying artwork in community spaces.

As a youth work organisation, our programme is formed by the ideas, interests and aspirations of the young people who take part.

Young people help design activities, shape our spaces and influence how the organisation develops. Some go on to volunteer, join our paid staff team, or become members of the Board.

We call this our Ladder of Progressive Participation, and it ensures that everyone can contribute, whether they want to attend a weekly session, influence the way SiMY is run, or gain experience for future employment.

Why is nature engagement so important at SiMY?

Watch this video from the WWF to understand more about the powerful impact of nature on your mental and physical well-being